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Te Anau to Milford Sound Tours
Select your experience
- Best for: families and visitors based in Te Anau looking for a no-frills, convenient visit to Milford Sound.
- Book this if you: want a hassle-free day trip that includes a cruise and round-trip transfers from Te Anau.
- What's unique: Enjoy short walks on the journey to and from Milford Sound, at spots like The Chasm, and Knobs Flat.
- Sights seen: Darran Mountains, Lake Gunn, Hollyford River and Falls Creek, Mitre Peak, Eglington Valley, Mirror Lakes, Homer Tunnel, and more.
- Best for: families and visitors based in Te Anau looking for a no-frills, convenient visit to Milford Sound.
- Book this if you: want a hassle-free day trip that includes a cruise and round-trip transfers from Te Anau.
- What's unique: Enjoy short walks on the journey to and from Milford Sound, at spots like The Chasm, and Knobs Flat.
- Sights seen: Darran Mountains, Lake Gunn, Hollyford River and Falls Creek, Mitre Peak, Eglington Valley, Mirror Lakes, Homer Tunnel, and more.
Inclusions
- Full-day tour to Milford Sound from Te Anau
- 2-hour Milford Sound cruise
- English-speaking driver/guide
- Round-trip transfers with stops for short walks
- Complimentary tea & coffee on-board
- Tip: Pack motion sickness tablets for the winding Milford Road. Even if you don't usually get car sick, the serpentine route can catch you off guard.
- The experience may be subject to change due to extreme weather conditions.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Cruises in Milford SoundTe Anau to Milford Sound Tours
What awaits on your journey from Te Anau to Milford Sound?
- Transfers: Take the scenic route from Te Anau in a comfortable AC coach. The tours offer pick-ups right from your hotel and take you on a journey with seasoned drivers and guides.
- Guided tours: These tours give you insight into unique local culture and ecosystems. Spot wildlife such as seals and dolphins along the way and listen to informative commentary from the experienced onboard crew.
- Activities: From guided walks on the Milford track to taking kayaks and boats to explore the extensive shoreline, the tour has something for everyone. Board a spacious vessel and cruise and admire the views of Mitre Peak, Pembroke Glacier, and waterfalls.
- Food: Relish tea break at Giant Gate waterfall and commentary coffee while marveling at glacier-carved landscapes. Some tours also offer 3-course buffet dinner and continental breakfast, with vegetarian options too.
- Premium experiences: If you are looking for a more intimate experience, go for the premium tour that offers delicious canapes and champagne, as you take in the beauty of the cascading waterfalls and towering peaks.
Pick the best Te Anau to Milford Sound tour for you
Standard day trip
Suitable for: Families and friends
Price range: From NZ$225 for a full-day cruise
Duration: 8-12 hours
Why choose this experience?
- Perfect budget option that includes transfers and 2 hours Milford Sound cruise. Day trips include walks, guided tours, and complimentary coffee on-board.
- You can also upgrade for a premium experience with a small group for NZ$410
Recommended experiences: From Te Anau: Milford Sound cruise and transfers
Premium experience
Suitable for: Partners and families
Price range: NZ$239 to NZ$429
Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes to 13 hours
Why choose this experience?
- For a luxurious affair, this tour offers private cabins and delicious meals cooked on-board.
- Catch glimpses of attractions like Eglinton Valley and Lake Gunn on your way to Milford Sound and know more about them from an expert nature guide.
Recommended experiences: Premium Milford Sound Cruise Tickets
Overnight experience
Suitable for: Partners and Families
Price range: NZ$1,499 to NZ$1,524
Duration: 17-31 hours
Why choose this experience?
- Spend some quality time with your family on an overnight trip to Milford Sound with return transfer to Te Anau.
- Experience a 3-course meal prepared by the chef on-board. Spot penguins and dolphins or hop on a kayak to explore the shoreline when the cruise is anchored.
Recommended experiences: Overnight Cruise Experience
Best to know before the trip
Timings
Transfers
Food
Facilities
Tips
Rules
- Duration: From 2 hours on the cruise to 31 hours for overnight stay.
- Starting time: Cruises from 7:20 am, 7:45am, 8:30am, 10:15am, 10:45am, 1:30 pm, and 4 pm.
- Boarding time: As mentioned on your voucher. Arrive at least 15 minutes before to settle down.
- Many tours offer hotel transfers. Remember to add your hotel name while booking.
- You can find your cruise boarding point location by following the directions mentioned on the voucher.
- Day trips: Refreshments are available for those who choose AC coaches. Complimentary beverages such as tea and coffee are also available along the journey.
- Overnight cruise: You can choose an elaborate three-course buffet dinner and continental breakfast prepared by a chef onboard an overnight cruise. Vegetarian options are also available.
- Premium cruise: You can also opt for a gourmet meal of canapes and champagne to make the experience even more memorable.
- Remember to provide specific dietary requirements when making a booking.
- Expert nature guide
- Trained crew
- Wheelchair accessibility (check your voucher while booking)
- Reserved seating
- Private cabins (for overnight cruise)
- Audio guides
- Snacks and meals (Additional food and beverage options available)
- Be prepared for winding roads and consider packing motion sickness tablets.
- Milford Sound is known for unpredictable weather. Wear comfortable layers, waterproof clothing, and sturdy walking shoes.
- Reserve your tour or cruise in advance, especially during peak seasons, to secure your spot.
- Early departures mean fewer crowds and serene conditions. Morning or late afternoon visits are also ideal for capturing the best lighting for photography.
- Stay on designated paths during guided walks to protect Milford Sound’s unique ecosystem.
- Certain activities, such as guided walks, have age and health restrictions. Participants under 8 years or above 75 should remain cautious for any strenuous activities.
- You will be taken through safety procedures by the staff, please make sure to follow them.
Sights to see on a Te Anau to Milford Sound tour:
Live the Te Anau to Milford Sound tour, where every pitstop has a story to tell. Designed for nature lovers and adventure seekers, this tour offers some of the best memories of the land.
Milford Track
The Milford Track, set in Fiordland National Park, known for its amazing views and rugged terrain. While the full hike takes four days, you can experience its beauty on your Te Anau to Milford Sound tour.
Milford Sound
A breathtaking fiord framed by Mitre Peak, dramatic waterfalls, and home to rare wildlife like Fiordland crested penguins and fur seals—a true world wonder.
Gertrude Valley
Gertrude Valley is a hidden gem with steep, mossy slopes, tumbling waterfalls, and clear, turquoise streams weaving through the valley floor.
Eglinton Valley
This glacially-carved valley features stunning views of golden meadows making it a popular stop for photographers.
Mirror Lakes
These small lakes reflect the Earl Mountains on calm days, creating a picturesque, mirror-like effect perfect for a short walk.
Lake Gunn
An alpine lake surrounded by forest, Lake Gunn offers short, family-friendly walking trails and chances to spot native birdlife.
Homer Tunnel
This 1.2-kilometer tunnel cuts through granite and offers a thrilling gateway to the Milford Sound region.
Pop's Lookout
A roadside viewpoint that offers panoramic vistas of Fiordland National Park, ideal for taking in the scale of the landscape.
FAQs
What are the best tour options from Te Anau to Milford Sound?
The tours from Te Anau to Milford Sound offer a range of experiences to suit various preferences and budgets. A standard Te Anau to Milford Sound ticket starts from NZ$220 and includes guided coach journey and 2-hour cruise. And if you’re looking for something luxurious, you can opt for an overnight stay at private cabins at NZ$1,449.
What’s the best season to go from Te Anau to Milford Sound?
In the summer, you’ll see lush landscapes with warmer weather. Winter adds snow-capped peaks for a magical view but expect cooler temps. Spring brings wildflowers, while fall offers vibrant colors and quieter trails.
How do I get from Te Anau to the Milford Sound tour starting point?
Most tours include transfers from Te Anau to Milford Sound. You’ll be picked up in a comfy coach with panoramic windows, perfect for enjoying the scenery along the way.
Do I need to prepare for changing weather?
Milford Sound is known for its unpredictable weather, so it’s wise to pack layers and a waterproof jacket—especially since rain creates stunning waterfalls. Even on a sunny day, things can change quickly.
Are there meals included on this tour?
Some tours offer lunch onboard the cruise or a packed picnic. If meals aren’t included, grab some snacks or a packed lunch, as options are limited once you’re en route to Milford Sound.
How to park at Te Anau or Milford Sound if I’m driving?
Parking can be tricky, especially at Milford Sound during peak times. Most people choose a tour with pick-up from Te Anau to skip the hassle, but if you’re driving, arrive early for parking availability.
How long is the Te Anau to Milford Sound drive, and are there rest stops?
The drive takes around 2 hours without stops, but most tours have breaks to enjoy scenic spots like Mirror Lakes and the Chasm, plus a rest stop halfway for stretching your legs and grabbing a snack.
Is the trip accessible for people with limited mobility?
Some tours offer accessible options, but it’s best to check the tickets to ensure your specific needs are met, especially for stops along the way and boarding the cruise at Milford Sound.
Is the journey suitable for kids?
Yes, kids usually love the mix of bus and boat travel, plus the chance to spot animals. Bring snacks and something to keep them entertained on the longer stretches of the drive.
Will I have mobile coverage?
Most of the drive has little to no mobile signal. It’s a remote area, so prepare to disconnect and enjoy the wild landscapes. The visitor center at Milford Sound has Wi-Fi for a quick reconnect if needed.
Is there a particular side of the cruise for better views?
Both sides have incredible views, but the starboard (right) side often faces some of the more stunning cliffs and waterfalls.
Any insider tips on avoiding crowds?
Early morning tours are usually less crowded. Winter and early spring also bring fewer visitors, creating a more tranquil experience without sacrificing the views.